June 12, 2009Q: I stumbled upon your site about a month ago and have checked it every day since. I see that you are high on Panerai watches, but also say that you think the maximum size watch an MB should wear is 40 mm. I have a Panerai which it 44 mm and I think that is the smallest watch they make. So I'm confused do you like Panerai watches or are they too big? I think it is perfect. Thanks.--Joe

A: We like Panerai and no, they're not too big. The Luminor GMT PAM 00244 is 40MM as are several other new models. Older 40MM models like the gorgeous PAM00159 (pictured) and PAM00160 are also available on eBay and and other web shops.

If you think it's perfect, chances are you've got thick, Popeye-like forearms. In that case, 44MM is in proportion. For normal landlubbers a 44MM watch can look like you've glued a minute hand on a dinner plate.

January 30, 2008Q: Wristwatch magnificence or malfeasance? Let's say that I wanted to protect my original Panerai watch from pick-pockets and drifters stealing it, would it be at all acceptable to drop $208 at exactreplica.com for my Panerai reproduction. Is that the definition of poser-wear? The reproduction looks pretty good.—Kevin

A: First of all, we can virtually guarantee that the movement in the repro is going to be a piece of shit that will leave you disappointed, and you'll end up wearing the real McCoy anyhow. In that case, consider ponying up an extra $136.95 and buying the Advanced Taser M-18 to zap any pick-pocket, drifter, or other unlucky motherfucker wanting to mess with your magnificent watch.

August 20, 2007Q: Looking for a stainless steel bracelet analog watch but don't want to spend a fortune. Any recs?—Jim

A: By "a fortune" we're assuming you mean anything over a couple of thousand bucks. That's too bad, because it rules out the Panerai Luminor GMT (left), a 100% badass watch and probably our all-time favorite. They can be had for around 6K on ebay. Some Magnificent Bastard staffers are considering organ donation as a funding source.

Not quite as cool but a significantly more affordable option is the Omega Seamaster Professional (center). This is the watch worn by James Bond as played by Pierce Brosnan ... wait, it gets better ... and James Bond as resurrected by Dan Craig in Casino Royale. Available at Amazon for $1595.

If you're not feeling that flush and still want a very nice watch, check out this Ollech & Wajs Kartago (right) for just $335 from Westcoastime. If the Katargo doesn't suit you, take a look at the other O&W options. We can speak from experience that O&W provides superb value, and Howard Marx at Westcoastime has the deals.